This is where the Collings line of mandolins begins but as with their guitars, it's far more than just "basic." The carved Engelmann spruce top means it's a mandolin that responds to even light picking, so you get a full tone without bashing on it. And the Eastern flamed maple back, sides and neck have lots of figure, there's no need to pay extra for lots of curly figure. Whether you're lightly noodling around or playing chop-chord backup for a string band, the Collings MT has great tone and volume with easy playability. The bridge saddle is easily adjustable so minor tweaks to the string action are not a hassle (you can even do it yourself if you're careful).